Electric Picnic really is as much about the "other stuff" as it is about the music. And by other stuff we mean top quality comedy, delicious food and drink, lively debate, yoga, raves in the wood, art and crafts, swimming and pampering sessions galore... and, of course, the funfair! Here's a run down of some our favorite stuff to do at EP.
Comedy
Trudging between stages to see all your favourite acts can be energy sapping, so what better way to kick back and unwind than to visit the comedy tent?
This year's line-up is first-rate, from hugely popular comedy sketch troupe Foil Arms and Hog, to freewheeling music maestro David O’Doherty, the effervescent and pleasingly chaotic Jason Byrne, razor sharp hip-hop musical comedian Rob Broderick, Father Ted legend Ardal O’Hanlon, actress and stand-up Deirdre O’Kane and Bridget and Eamon’s Bernard O’Shea.
One of the acts that’s sure to have you rolling in the aisles is Tony Cantwell, whose offbeat yet on-the-nose sketches are unlike else out there at the moment.
The comedy tent takes place on Saturday August 31 and Sunday Sept 1 and kicks off at 1.15pm each day. Click here for more info.
Sarah McIntyre
MindField
It's not all about the pursuit of hedonism and great music at EP (OK, it is) and here, as ever, to provide food for thought is MindField, the Picnic’s pulsing brain. This is the corner of the Stradbally Estate where debate, science, theatre, and literature come together - and this year’s MindField is bigger than ever.
New features include The Future Island, which reflects on a post-Brexit Ireland and the even more pressing issue of climate change.
The Leviathan tent is back and among its many attractions, Miriam O’Callaghan hosts her annual Sunday Brunch with guests casting a jaundiced eye on the newspapers. Plus the story of satirical (right?) website Waterford Whispers News is told to Dr. Gunther Grun by its creators.
The new Manifesto stage features comedy producer John Lloyd (Blackadder, Spitting Image, QI) in conversation with Blindboy Boatclub, and The Ah, Hear! Podcast Stage returns with a bigger tent and featuring some of the biggest Irish podcasts making their Electric Picnic debut.
There’s plenty more where all that came from.
Alan Corr
Little Picnic
This year, Little Picnic will be run by the people behind Kaleidoscope so punters can expect a mini-festival of family and fun for everyone 12 and under, at the walled garden at Stradbally.
There's music, art, science, nature, sport, theatre, food, spoken word, illustration and loads more on offer across four stages and a sports field.
Performances and workshops include The Ballymore Brass Band, the Explorium Family Science Show with Mark the Science Guy, Gaiety School of Acting, Marty Moncrieff the Teddy Bear Thief, the Javanese Gamelan Orchestra, the Laois Youth Orchestra, My Higher Shelf, Bean & Goose Chocolates, Fighting Words, Junk Kouture and more.
With lots and lots of design workshops, creatives of all ages will be spoiled for choice across the weekend.
And Little Picnic Sports Field will play host to some well-known faces, who'll be providing masterclasses for all the family, as well as high energy fun with Go Gym.
Click here for more info
John Byrne
Immerse Spa
Ever since dipping my toes into my first hot tub at Electric Picnic a few years ago, it has become a festival must for me since. At the Immerse Spa, located in the Body & Soul area, there are hot tubs galore and while the tubs themselves are relaxing, the added bonus of the shower afterwards is the icing on the cake.
You don't need to worry about bringing swimwear or towels, they supply everything you need, and while you can rock up on the day, there is also the option to prebook to secure your preferred time.
Great for a Friday to unwind after carrying in all your bags, but even better on a Sunday afternoon when you're really in need of a pick me up before diving into the last night.
Click here to book your hot tub!
Sinead Brennan
Lake Swimming
If the over indulgence of the picnic has you craving for some exercise, or if you are feeling a little fuzzy-headed after the night before, a dip in the lake will sort you out.
To reach the lake, follow the sign-posted riverside path leading from the Jimi Hendrix Campsite area. Picnic lifeguards will be on duty to watch out for everyone's safety over the course of the weekend.
Adults can participate as long as they are competent swimmers, while kids can splash around when accompanied by a responsible adult who can swim.
It'll be a little nippy, so make sure you have something warm to wear afterwards!
Suzanne Keane
